The bridge of prize - listed bridge up for top civil engineering award

The bridge over the River Cerne was rebuilt last year in an effort to tackle flooding in the village.

A number of homes an the village church were flooded in January 2014 when the river burst its banks, with the design of the old bridge with its small arches believed to have contributed to the problems.

English Heritage approved a project involving Dorset County Council and the Environment Agency to rebuild the structure.

The work has now been included in the shortlist announced by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) South West shortlist for its Civil Engineering Awards 2016.

The prestigious awards celebrate outstanding civil engineering achievement, innovation and ingenuity around the South West.

Miranda Housden, ICE South West regional director said: “Our Civil Engineering Awards recognise projects which promote the excellence of the engineering profession.

“The South West is full of innovative and inspiring projects and engineers, from a wide range of sectors.

“The shortlist for this year’s awards really showcases fantastic projects, in amazing locations across the region.”

The project at Charminster saw a replacement bridge to modern standards provided within a conservation area that allows greater flood resilience, whilst still retaining the character of the previous structure.

In the long term, the project will allow better flood resilience in the area and greater flood water capacity through the bridge.

Cllr Peter Finney, Dorset County Council cabinet member for environment, said: “I am very pleased for our engineers and staff to see their efforts recognised for the professional and dedicated work they deliver each and every day in the interests of the people of Dorset.

“We’re proud to have been a part of this project. It will make a real difference to the community and help protect nearby historic buildings.

“The new bridge has as much of the original character as possible, and it looks great.”